SADP Graduates Farmers in Berea

The Smallholder Agriculture Development Project (SADP) under the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition held a graduation ceremony for its beneficiaries in Berea on Thursday this week.
Speaking on behalf of the Principal Secretary, Mr. Thabo Sekhonyana highlighted that Lesotho continues to face serious challenges of food insecurity. He noted that about 2.2 percent of the population suffers from malnutrition and poverty, which prompted the Ministry to introduce projects aimed at addressing these challenges.
Mr. Sekhonyana acknowledged that the project faced obstacles, including climate change, but said that despite these, it has achieved notable successes. He explained that the graduation ceremony also serves as a festival to showcase agricultural achievements and to connect farmers with the market.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition, Honourable Thabo Mofosi, described the event as a great honour, saying it provides an opportunity to learn from both the successes and challenges farmers have faced. He said the graduation marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Ministry and its partners.
Minister Mofosi emphasised that agriculture remains the backbone of Lesotho’s economy, and expressed gratitude to farmers for their patience and commitment. He added that the SADP project has made a significant impact on the lives of farmers and the general public, and that its positive results are clearly visible.
One of the pig farmers who benefited from the project shared that it has transformed many lives, reducing poverty and hunger in the community. She said before the project began, she employed 32 workers, all paid according to labour laws, and as her business continues to grow, she plans to hire even more people.